Question: Do you have any information on natural treatments for candidiasis?

Dr. Wright: Candidiasis is basically a chronic yeast infection, which can be localized, topical, or systemic. One of the reasons this condition is becoming so common is the all-too-common sugar-laden diet so many Americans consume. Sugar feeds yeast. Also, individuals with compromised immune systems, women who are pregnant or taking birth control pills, or people on antibiotics are more prone to yeast infections. And that's quite a significant portion of the population.

Luckily, there is a lot you can do about it. First, cutting out refined and simple sugars, alcohol, fruit juice, and refined carbohydrates is a must. Also, food allergies need to be investigated, as they can cause imbalances in the system that invite yeast infection as well. Also, some individuals who experience an overgrowth of intestinal yeast significantly under-produce hydrochloric acid in their stomach. This affects the acid-alkaline balance of the entire gastrointestinal tract, leaving it lopsided on the alkaline side, which encourages the growth of yeast. For both of these conditions you should work closely with a natural medicine physician to remedy the underlying cause.

Incorporating probiotics and digestive enzymes into your diet can also produce "good" flora in your system which will help balance the yeast. Probiotic supplements (like acidophilus and lactobacillius) are available in most natural food stores and vitamin shops.